Catfish is especially associated with the traditional African American fish fry.
In the American South, catfish is commonly seasoned, coated in cornmeal, and fried until crisp. Fish fries developed as important community gatherings, combining food, fellowship, music, and fundraising. Although many kinds of fish can be served, catfish became particularly prominent because it is abundant in Southern waterways and well suited to frying.
A fish fry is not limited to catfish: regional versions may use perch, bluegill, whiting, or other fish. The defining tradition is the communal fried-fish meal, often accompanied by hushpuppies, slaw, beans, or other Southern sides.